R&R Pacific - August/September 2017

calendar of events • travel • restaurants & food • trends • recreation • sports • culture & arts • special features • nightlife • coupons & much more

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017

ESPRESSO YOURSELF

Cups of joe gone 2.0

BETWIXT TWO RIVERS

The lush landscape of Northern Laos

LESSONS IN COOL

Teachers with personality

Teachers bring their personalities to the classroom. (From left) Rose Munoz of J.P. Torres Alternative School; Kelly Fitzpatrick of Academy of Our Lady of Guam; Peter Linn, contract teacher of George Washington High School; and Olan Genevieve Rodillas of Benavente Middle School. Photo by Joe Cruz

contents TRAVEL

Northern Laos

ARTIST

Alexa Lim

ESSENCE OF GUAM

Palauan community of Guam

CALENDAR

Events in August and September

SPECIAL FEATURE

Horse & Cow’s 10th anniversary

FEATURED EVENT

2017 KONQER circuit

4 8 10

COVER

Teachers with a twist

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4

RESTAURANTS

26

OUT & ABOUT

28

Signature coffees

Readers’ and event photos

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8

15 19

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R&R Pacific is a lifestyle magazine that features the people, culture and activities that collectively make up Guam. We provide our readers a window into the different facets of Guam’s diverse community through vibrant photography and engaging articles.

www.facebook.com/rrpacificguam

@rrpacificguam

About the cover: Olan Genevieve Rodillas, a seventh grade geography teacher at Vicente S.A. Benavente Middle School, shares with R&R how she strives to relate to her students. Rodillas was photographed at the John F. Kennedy High School library. See story on page 20. Photo by Joe Cruz.

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R&R Pacific August/September

2017

PUBLISHER

GENERAL SALES MANAGER

Maureen N. Maratita

Ken Dueñas

MANAGING EDITOR

PRODUCT REPRESENTATIVE

Jackie Hanson

Jon Mendiola

ASSISTANT EDITOR

ADMINISTRATION

Janice Castro

REPORTER

Carmelita McClellan

Jenalyn Aguon

Joy White Lara Ozaki

CREATIVE DEPT. SUPERVISOR

MANAGING DIRECTOR

Vikki Fong

Marcos W. Fong

DESIGN AND PRODUCTION

Keisha Gozum

Luisa Joy Castro

Glimpses of Guam Inc. Mission Statement: To connect people with information.

Glimpses Publications include: Marianas Business Journal • MBJ Life • Guam Business Magazine • R&R Pacific • Beach Road Magazine

R&R Pacific • August/September 2017 • Entire contents copyrighted 2017 by Glimpses of Guam, Inc. R&R Pacific is published bi-monthly by Glimpses of Guam, Inc., 161 US Army Juan C. Fejeran St., Barrigada Heights, GU 96913.

Telephone: (671) 649-0883, Fax: (671) 649-8883, Email: assist_editor@glimpsesofguam.com • All rights reserved.

No material may be printed in part or in whole without written permission from the publisher.

Wat Xieng Thong Temple in Luang Prabang.

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Travel///Northern Laos

A Lush Landscape

Northern Laos

BY DEAN HETHINGTON

The Lao are gracious and friendly people.

The French had a saying about their colonial Indochina: “The Vietnamese plant the rice, the Cambodians watch the rice grow and the Lao listen to it grow.”

The Lao are descendants of Tai ethnic groups who originally migrated from what is now Yunnan in Southern China beginning in the seventh century. At least twice in Lao history, the country was divided into three kingdoms along the mighty river Mekong: The North, centered around Luang Prabang; the central Vientiane region; and the South, containing the Champasak province and locale of the splendid 4,000 Islands of Mekong.

The country’s present-day People’s Democratic Republic is a modern-day incarnation of the once-powerful Lan Xang, a 14th to 18th century kingdom known as the Land of One Million Elephants. Its capital was the city of Muang Xieng Thong — the City of Gold —now known as Luang Prabang, abode of the royal Buddha image presented by the king of Angkor in 1353.

Luang Prabang, a small, still medieval and royal city, is nestled among the mountains and clouds at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan (Ou) rivers that time seems to have passed by. Originally preserved by its remoteness, it is now protected by

its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its built heritage is said to be “in perfect harmony with the natural environment.” Now accessible by air, decent roads and traditional boats and cruises along the Mekong, boutique hotels, great shopping for local handicrafts and international standard restaurants featuring food from around the world are appearing in many remodeled original structures. Most everything here can be reached and experienced on a few leisurely walks.

Luang Prabang is a place to immerse in the exotic and relax with access to modern services, excellent restaurants and accommodations without the pressure of complicated undertakings to visit must-see, and often far-flung, tourist sites. They’re all right around you. Perhaps the only out-of-town must-see is nearby Kuang Siwaterfall, whose clear turquoise terraced pools are perfect for swimming.

It’s easily accessible by boat or tuk-tuk.

The forests and mists keep the area cool year-round.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

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The temples, called wats or pagodas, are said to be the “most sophisticated in Southeast Asia,” lavishly decorated with sculptures, engravings, paintings and colored glass and gold. Most famous is the 16th century Wat Xieng Thong, an assemblage of complex structures remarkable as an archaeological, iconographic and aesthetic masterpiece with a unique mosaic on the rear wall depicting the tree of life. Then ascend the 355 steps to the peak of Mount Phousi at the heart of the historic town and visit Wat That Chom Sii, whose gold-spired stupa can be seen from most parts of the city. From the mountain top, magical views of the old Royal Palace, now the Palace Museum, rivers, mountains and surrounding villages are especially vibrant at sunrise or sunset. The palace overlooks the peninsula formed by the Mekong and Nam Khan.

According to local lore, the Mekong and Nam Khan are the domain of the mythical Naga, Hindu and Buddhist serpent deities taking the form of great snakes believed to live in the Laotian stretch of the Mekong River as “persecutors of all creatures ever bent on biting other creatures.” They are now seen as protectors of the Lao state. The great nemesis of the Naga is the gigantic eagle-king Garuda. Carvings of both abound on temples throughout Southeast Asia.

A moving sight takes place in early morning when saffronrobed monks emerge from temples forming a procession of hundreds with their begging bowls to receive alms affording the giver good karma and spiritual benefit.

The more adventurous have the entire Lao North, said to be Asia’s best preserved natural environment, explored by river boat or by trekking the road, where unexpected adventures and laid-back experiences are everywhere.

LAOS Currencies: Three currencies are in circulation in Laos – the Lao Kip, with $1 worth 8,236 Lao Kip; the Thai Baht, with $1 worth 34 Thai Baht; and the U.S. dollar. Few businesses accept credit cards. There are some ATMs in Luang Prabang. Small bills are recommended.

When to visit: High season for tourism is October to late April, during the dry season. Don’t go during April as there is seasonal slash and burn field preparation. The wet season, May to late September, is better for lower prices and fewer fellow tourists.

Visas: Most nationalities receive a 30-day visa on arrival.

Getting there: Most airlines offer flights with one or two layovers. Flights from Guam include 17 hours and 15 minutes via Korean Air or 17 hours and 40 minutes via Jeju Air.

(From top) Ou River in Nong Khiaw; boats along the Ou River; Kuang Si Falls.

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Artist///Painter Alexa Lim

Her Natural State Painter returns to passion STORY AND PHOTO BY JOY WHITE

A landscape painting of flamingos milling in wetlands sits in her Tamuning studio waiting to be finished. She carefully considers what she wants to add. She paints a lone woman sitting on a patch of land in the distance. The human figure helps the audience connect with the piece, she says, but the work is not about the woman.

“Color Map” (2015) Acrylic on canvas

Alexa K. Lim in her Tamuning studio. Lim is returning to her lifelong passion for art.

“Beach Ball in the Pool” (2015) Acrylic on canvas

“The focus is not on the person, but on how small we are in nature, I suppose,” says Alexa K. Lim, a painter recently returned to her craft. Lim decides the piece needs more contrast, a common theme in her work, and will return to the piece later.

Lim paints in acrylic and oil and dabbles in photography and filmmaking. Being a painter was the only career she ever considered. People often told her that she would not be able to make a good living as an artist unless she wanted to be an art teacher. But that didn’t dissuade her.

She studied art in college, attaining her master’s in fine arts from the University of Massachusetts. She has exhibited her work at shows in New York; Austin, Texas; and Korea.

After grad school, she helped her husband operate his dental clinic, then moved to Korea due to family obligations.

“I eventually slipped away from art,” Lim says.

Lim and her husband then moved to Saipan briefly, where they experienced a tropical environment for the first time.

Lim was inspired by the colors and brightness of the island.

She gained much inspiration from Sugar Dock, photographing and filming the waves and the surrounding area.

“I really loved the ocean and the colors. Nature brings

you back to your natural state of self,” she says. “You can’t help it if you’re naturally drawn to it. I see color and light and have a desire to express it somehow.”

Now painting is her first priority. Second priorities are important, too, she says. “But a lot of the time in life you don’t get to do your second priority,” she says.

Lim gets inspiration from her surroundings and her love for film and literature. She takes photos, some of which stand alone as works of arts and others serve as inspiration for a painting.

She likes to capture color in her work, especially bright colors, because people tend to forget how vibrant colors can be, she says.

Lim also likes to incorporate geometric shapes and architecture in her paintings.

Her goal is to develop her body of work. She plans to display her paintings at the CAHA gallery next July.

Lim would like to work with children to help expose them to the possibilities of art and is open to collaborating with other artists, including musicians. Her work can be viewed at limlimstudio.com and she can be reached at alexalim.art@gmail.com.

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Birds (2015) Acrylic on canvas

Essence of Guam///Cultures

Palauan Community STORY BY JOY WHITE | PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE PALAU COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION OF GUAM

Many Palauans call Guam home and are ready to share their culture and goodwill with the island community.

“We show our appreciation to the island for hosting us. […] This is our second home,” says Jeanny Donatus, who has lived on Guam since she was a young girl and now serves as the secretary of the Palau Community Association of Guam.

The Palau Community Association of Guam, which was officially established in 1979, is the umbrella organization of 16 member clubs, representing each of the states of Palau. In addition to assisting members of the Palauan community, the organization extends a helping hand to the community as a whole.

Each club organizes its own events, but the association brings them all together for special community projects, such as the Island Beautification Task Force roadway adoption program. The association adopted a section of Route 1 in Hagåtña that runs from the Great Seal of Guam Park to the Governor’s Complex in Anigua. The organization has also adopted several bus stops and donates to the American Red Cross Guam Chapter and volunteers with the Rigalu Foundation.

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Palauan population of Guam: 2,563 Organizations: • Palau Consulate Office • Palau Community Association of Guam, an umbrella organization of 16 member clubs representing each Palau state Holidays: Palau Independence Day – Oct. 1

“What I love about my culture is the way we interact with other people.

We always think of others; it’s how we were taught.

Yes, we can do what we want, but we must also think of others. … It’s all about sharing.”

— Junior “Omakius” H. Spesungel, president of the Palau Community Association of Guam

The association provides productive activities for the youth through its sponsorship of the Mangilao softball team and maintains the village’s softball field, Eagle Field, as well.

The Palauan Community Association is also working to build a community center in Lada, Dededo for gatherings, public outreach and demonstrations for the entire island.

A groundbreaking for the community center was to be held in July. The organization hopes to host its annual Palau Independence Day celebrations in October at the property once it is cleared.

Palau Independence Day recognizes the day the Compact of Free Association with the United States went into effect, Oct. 1, 1994.

“We celebrate our independence.

It’s very meaningful because we are able to travel to seek better education and opportunities,” Donatus says.

The Palau Community Association will hold festivities a week after the official holiday to accommodate a visit from Palau President Tommy E. Remengesau, who visits the different Palauan communities in the region and in the United States throughout the month.

The Palau Independence Day celebration is open to the public and will feature entertainment and Palauan cuisine, such as various taro and tapioca dishes and seafood, such as smoked fish and, if the weather is right, sea urchin. The public is encouraged to visit the tents of the various states to try their signature dishes.

Some of the dishes, such as coconut candy, will be familiar to Guamanians.

The various state clubs will perform cultural dances, including ones that are only performed by men or women, and live bands and musicians will provide entertainment.

There will be games, including coconut husking and grinding and spear fishing-themed games to remind Palauans of where they came from and how they used to do things, Donatus said.

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AUGUST & SEPTEMBER Aug. 5

Sept. 2

Boonie Stomp: Inarajan Falls

Bark for Life of Guam

Time: Meet at the Center Court of Chamorro Village at 9 a.m.

Duration: Four hours Length: Five miles Difficulty: Difficult Bring: Three quarts water, hiking boots, swimsuit, gloves, sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch and camera Special conditions: Walking in the sun through open and hilly terrain, climbing a steep slope with a rope and some mud Price: $2 for hikers over 12 years old For more information, visit www.facebook.com/GuamBoonieStompersInc or call 787-4238.

Fundraising dog walking event for the American Cancer Society Time: 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Location: Plaza de Espana, Hagåtña For more information, contact Tina Noket at tina.noket@cancer.org or visit main.acsevents.org.

Aug. 5

The Pink Ball: Pink Rocks On

Sept. 9

KONQER Saipan obstacle course challenge Location: Gov. Eloy S. Inos Peace Park, Puerto Rico, Saipan Registration fees: $75 for participants aged 18 years old and up; $40 for students ages 15 to 17; $750 and up for businesses teams; and free for kids under 14 years old.

For more information and to register, visit konqersports.com.

Black tie event Time: 6 p.m.

Location: Dusit Thani Guam Resort For tickets and more information, call 969-2223.

Sept. 9-10

Aug. 19 and 20

Sept. 16 to 23

Epixcon

Pow! Wow! Guam

Anime, gaming and cosplay event Time: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday Location: Agana Shopping Center For more information, visit www.epixcon.com.

A mural festival produced by Pow! Wow! International and GAX Location: The Plaza

Aug. 19

Boonie Stomp: Tagu’on Time: Meet at the Center Court of Chamorro Village at 9 a.m.

Duration: Three hours Length: Two miles Difficulty: Medium Bring: Three quarts of water, hiking boots, gloves, swimsuit, snorkel gear, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, lunch and camera Special conditions: Walking on rough rocks and in the water and possible surf Price: $2 for hikers over 12 years old For more information, visit www.facebook.com/GuamBoonieStompersInc or call 787-4238.

Aug. 26

EIF End of Summer Guam 2017 Time: 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Location: Globe Nightclub Price: $15

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Mangilao Donne’ Festival Location: Mangilao Night Market grounds

Sept. 16 to Oct. 8

Guam Art Exhibit Location: The Plaza Sept. 23

2017 Red Ball: 101 Reasons Black tie event Location: Dusit Thani Guam Resort For more tickets and more information, contact the American Red Cross Guam Chapter at 472-6217.

Sept. 27 to Oct. 1

Guam International Film Festival Location: Guam Museum For a schedule of showings and more information, visit www.guamfilmfestival.org.

EVENTSCALENDAR

august sun

mon

tue 1

wed 2

thu 3

fri 4

MOVIES

The Dark Tower Kidnap Wind River Detroit

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7

8

9

10

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MOVIES

sat 5 • Boonie Stomp: Inarajan Falls • The Pink Ball: Pink Rocks On

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Annabelle: Creation The Nut Job 2: Nutty

by Nature The Only Living Boy in New York The Glass Castle

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14

15

16

17

18

MOVIES

The Hitman’s Bodyguard

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21

22

23

24

• Epixcon

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25

MOVIES

All Saints Tulip Fever Polaroid

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29

30

19 • Epixcon • Boonie Stomp: Tagu’on

26 • EIF End of Summer Guam 2017

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FEATURED MOVIE August 4

The Dark Tower Directed by F. Nikolaj Arcel Starring Idris Elba, Matthew McConaughey, Tom Taylor, Claudia Kim, Fran Kranz, Abbey Lee and Jackie Earle Haley

There are other worlds than these. Stephen King’s “The Dark Tower,” the ambitious and expansive story from one of the world’s most celebrated authors, makes its launch to the big screen. The last Gunslinger, Roland Deschain, portrayed by Idris Elba, has been locked in an eternal battle with Walter O’Dim, also known as the Man in Black, portrayed by Matthew McConaughey. Roland is determined to prevent the Man in Black from toppling the Dark Tower, which holds the universe together. With the fate of the worlds at stake, good and evil will collide in the ultimate battle as only Roland can defend the Tower from the Man in Black. (Official plot from sonypictures.com.) *Event times and dates may change without notice.

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september sun

mon

tue

wed

thu

fri 1

MOVIES

Renegades

sat 2 • Bark for Life of Guam • 3rd Annual International Festival of Cultures, Saipan

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4

5

6

7

Labor Day

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MOVIES

It Home Again • Mangilao Donne’ Festival

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11

12

13

14

15 MOVIES

• Mangilao Donne’ Festival

American Assassin

9 • 3rd Annual International Festival of Cultures, Saipan • KONQER Saipan obstacle course challenge • Mangilao Donne’ Festival

16 • 3rd Annual International Festival of Cultures, Saipan • Pow! Wow! Guam (through Sept. 23) • Guam Art Exhibit (through Oct. 28)

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24

18

25

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26

20

27 • Guam International Film Festival (through Oct. 1)

FEATURED MOVIE September 22

The LEGO Ninjago Directed by Charlie Bean, Paul Fisher and Bob Logan Starring Jackie Chan, Dave Franco, Justin Theroux, Fred Armisen, Abbi Jacobson, Olivia Munn, Kumail Nanjiani, Michael Peña, and Zach Woods

In this big-screen NINJAGO adventure, the battle for NINJAGO City calls to action young Master Builder Lloyd, aka the Green Ninja, along with his friends, who are all secret ninja warriors. Led by Master Wu, as wise-cracking as he is wise, they must defeat evil warlord Garmadon, The Worst Guy Ever, who also happens to be Lloyd’s dad. Pitting mech against mech and father against son, the epic showdown will test this fierce but undisciplined team of modern-day ninjas who must learn to check their egos and pull together to unleash their inner power of Spinjitzu. (Official plot from warnerbros.com.)

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21

28

22

MOVIES

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Kingsman: The Golden Circle The LEGO Ninjago Movie Battle of the Sexes

• 3rd Annual International Festival of Cultures, Saipan

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30

MOVIES

American Made Flatlines

• 2017 Red Ball: 101 Reasons

• 3rd Annual International Festival of Cultures, Saipan

Congratulations FOR 10 YEARS OF SERVICE!

from,

Special Feature///Horse & Cow Anniversary

Horse & Cow Pub & Grill 10 years of good times

STORY BY JOY WHITE

Step into the Horse & Cow Pub & Grill, and you step into a treasure trove of memories of good times.

Countless photographs and memorabilia from Navy ships and submarines are mounted on its walls and banners hang from its ceiling. Many of the items are signed by the service men and women who have called the pub and grill a second home and donated the items as a token of appreciation. Each item has a story.

“This is their place,” says Robert Salas, general manager of the restaurant. “There’s a lot of history in here.” The oldest item in the restaurant is a 50-year-old system control box and the proprietors have begun to catalog each item, establishing the restaurant as a submariner museum.

The first Horse & Cow was opened in 1953 in California by Jimmy Looby, affectionately called The Godfather by his patrons. Today, the California and Guam pub and grill locations are owned and operated by his son, Mike Looby.

The name of the restaurant is a nod to ancient mythology and maritime history. Neptune, the god of the sea of Roman mythology, is often portrayed accompanied by a small horse and cow or bull. In World Wars I and II, merchant sailors tattooed a horse on one ankle, a cow on the other, in hopes of ensuring safe passage from submarines that might sink their ships.

In addition to the good times to be had, the pub and grill is known for its food. The most popular items on the menu are the chicken wings, which come in a variety of flavors, such as teriyaki and lemon pepper, and levels of spicy, including medium, XXX or DOA. The restaurant’s menu features a diverse collection of items, including sandwiches, burgers, tacos and steak.

One of the establishment’s signature items is its Bloody

Mary, which is garnished with savory kebabs and served with a burger, steak or grilled cheese sandwich.

“Nobody does [wings] like they do here. It tastes like something you’d do at home,” says Auria, who visits the restaurant on occasion with her sister, friends or with their kids. She also appreciates that the restaurants shows support for the military.

Her favorite menu item is the chicken wings with the lemon pepper sauce. Wings with buffalo sauce are her second favorite.

Auria also takes advantage of Steak Night every Tuesday, when the 8-ounce New York steak is $7. “The steak is stinkin’ delicious,” she says.

The steak is also a go-to meal for Rodney, who visits the establishment twice a week for its “quality food and a good meal.” He has his steak with fries and a salad. The steak is always cooked exactly to his preference, he says, whether he asks for it medium or rare.

The Horse & Cow fare is not only delicious, but affordable. The pub and grill has daily specials. On Mondays and Thursdays, the chicken wings are 50¢ each. On Tuesdays and Fridays, tacos are on special.

Selected drinks and menu items are half priced on Wednesdays, including the Bloody Mary. Happy hour is every day from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Patrons seeking a relaxed evening should visit the Horse & Cow on Tuesdays and Fridays, when musicians perform live.

Since it opened its doors, Horse & Cow became popular among the Submarine Force and the U.S. Navy. Today, the restaurant has evolved, along with the military, to be family friendly for a new generation of restaurant-goers to make memories.

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Featured Event///KONQER

A FEAT OF FUN, FITNESS AND TEAMWORK KONQER adds Saipan to its circuit of destination obstacle course races

BY JOY WHITE | PHOTOS BY KAMBES KESOLEI

No obstacle was insurmountable for participants of KONQER Palau held on June 10 and 11. The event will make its way to the Northern Mariana Islands for the first time this September.

There is no greater thrill than climbing, crawling, swinging or jumping one’s way to victory.

KONQER Sports is bringing its signature obstacle course challenge to the Northern Mariana Islands for the first time on Sept. 9 and back to Guam on Oct. 15.

The course features 15 manmade obstacles, utilizing the unique landscape of each course’s setting, to be completed individually or as part of a team of up to 40 participants. The event features various divisions, including a timed division for athletes who want to compete to finish the course in the shortest time and a completion division, in which participants can complete the course at their own pace. “[…] It’s like being a kid again, with jungle gyms and stuff,” says Mike Mafnas, a Guam resident who completed KONQER Palau on June 10 — 11 with his girlfriend, Cheryl Guyton.

He highly recommends it to anyone interested in participating.

KONQER Palau was his first course, and he is excited to compete in KONQER Saipan with a team of 10, of whom six are participating in the event for the first time. “[KONQER Palau] was very challenging. The course was really fun and exciting. To finish was the ultimate goal. It was great to ring that cowbell at the end and know you accomplished

something,” Mafnas says.

In addition to the rewards of a physical challenge, Mafnas was also able to take in the Peleliu and Korror landscape, including its caves and historical sites. “[My] ultimate favorite [part of the course] would be the natural course in Peleliu because it took us around the World War II Marines invasion [sites]. There was a lot of history we were able to learn about during this race,” he says.

Mafnas looks forward to working with his team to conquer the obstacle course, as members are allowed to help each other.

“It’s all about bringing your team together and building a bond with each other,” he says.

Registration for KONQER Saipan and Guam is available online at konqersports.com.

If you go . . .

2017 KONQER Circuit Sept. 9 KONQER Saipan Gov. Eloy S. Inos Peace Park, Puerto Rico Oct. 15 KONQER Guam Gov. Joseph Flores (Ypao) Park, Tumon Early bird pricing for the first 200 participants: $75 for participants 18 years old and above; $40 for students ages 15 to 17 years old; $750 and above for business teams; and free for children under the age of 14 years old Regular pricing: $125 for participants 18 years old and above; $40 for students ages 15 to 17 years old; $1,250 for business teams; and free for children under the age of 14 years old.

For more information and to register, visit konqersports.com.

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Cover///Teachers

Teachers with a twist Colorful educators who make school cool

STORY BY JOY WHITE | PHOTOS BY JOE CRUZ

Teaching is much more than a job. It requires the right personality and character, as well as dedication. Many teachers let their personalities shine in the classroom, earning them a reputation as a “cool teacher” while also assisting their purpose of engaging, connecting with and influencing their students.

Kelly Fitzpatrick Years teaching: 17 years School: Academy of Our Lady of Guam Subjects: Physical science and physics Hobbies: Diving and outdoors activities

Production value

Kelly Fitzpatrick’s theory is, the cornier the joke, the more the kids will like it.

The general science and physics teacher tells a lot of “bad jokes” to his students at the Academy of Our Lady of Guam and has been known to jump on the desk to sing an operatic version of “Happy Birthday,” he says.

“Teaching is performance art. You have to do what’s required to get students to learn,” Fitzpatrick says. “You have to be in the entertainment business a little, too.”

He’ll ask his students, “What did the baby acorn say?” When they do not guess the answer, he’ll say, “Geometry.”

“A few will get it, then they have to explain it to the others. And you can watch it spread across the room,” he says. The two liner comes from a joke book his parents gifted him as a kid, and it remains one of his favorites.

Another of his favorites is: “What did the duck say to the painted Easter egg?”

“Oh, an orange marmalade!”

Humor and fun in the classroom are important for engaging students, he says. “You have to have fun. If not, then you’re a distraction rather than an addition,” he says.

He has been teaching general science to freshmen and physics to seniors at the Academy of Our Lady of Guam for 13 years. Previously, he taught at Southern High School for four years.

When friends and acquaintances ask him when he’ll retire, he says, “When it stops being fun.”

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Olan Genevieve Rodillas Years teaching: 6 years School: Vincente S.A. Benavente Middle School Subject: Social studies Hobbies: Cooking, guitar and Rotaract International

Striking a chord

Olan Genevieve Rodillas tries to relate to her seventh graders on their level to help them learn during a difficult part of their lives.

She does this by incorporating her musical inclinations in the classroom.

She had originally wanted to be a music teacher but found there were limited options as not all of Guam’s public schools have a music program.

On occasion, she brings her guitar to class. “It’s a way to connect with the students,” she says. She plays songs they know, gets them to join in and if there is any free time, students are welcome to strum a tune or two.

Additionally, she says, “You have to have a sense of humor because [preteens] can be moody. In middle school, you’re just trying to find yourself and I see that in my students.”

Rodillas tries to mix it up in the classroom. She taps into her students’ varying learning styles and she tries to include all of them to help each student learn in his or her own way. Some express themselves better through writing, others not so much.

Paper mache globes are popular with everyone, she says, as students enjoy getting messy.

She tries to support her students’ interests by showing up to games if they’re athletes or encouraging them to audition for plays or productions if they’re interested in the arts.

Rodillas comes from a family of educators. Her father, aunt and grandmothers were teachers.

“I also had good teachers and wanted to be like them,” she says. “They inspired me to go out and inspire other young minds.”

Section///Spotlight Special Feature///Rotten Apple

Rose Munoz Years teaching: 10 years School: JP Torres Alternative School Subject: School-to-work Hobbies: Triathlons, sewing and dressmaking

Training for the long run

Rose Munoz channels her interest in business into her roll of assisting students transition into the workforce at JP Torres Alternative School.

She graduated from college with a business degree and a minor in accounting. However, with a little one on the way, she changed her career trajectory to pursue a more flexible career and eventually earned a master’s in special education.

“Being a teacher has taught me so many things and I feel like it fits my personality,” she says. She is able to work with other people in business to help her students.

Early in her teaching career, Munoz taught special education, working with students with vision impairments, and now she teaches school-towork, a business program for upper high school students, providing job readiness skills and coaching them through an internship.

“I feel like their success is my success and I really devote a lot of my time and energy during the school year. I get caught up in excitement that goes on all through the year,” she says.

She takes pride in the direction the school is going as it transitioned from a behavioral school to its current rebranding to JP Torres Success Academy. Most of all she takes pride in her students.

“I really am passionate about teaching, though that was never my dream,” she says. “My passion is seeing them more successful in life.

And I witnessed our first graduation. […] It was an emotional moment for all of us.”

In her spare time, Munoz keeps herself busy with real estate and fitness events.

“I try to stay healthy and try to stay fit,” she says. Munoz is a triathlete and a member of the Guam National Olympic Committee. She was a triathlon manager for the Pacific Games in 2013.

She has competed in three body building competitions and now is a volunteer with the local bodybuilding community and the Guam Triathlon Federation.

She recently picked up dress making. She took a sewing class to learn to make her own dress that would allow her to nurse her daughter.

“I’m picking it up again. It is starting to become really enjoyable for me. I love it. It’s great. I have ownership of the stuff that I wear,” she says.

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Peter Linn Years teaching on Guam: 35 years School: George Washington High School Subject: Health Hobbies: Music, water polo, windsurfing, stand-up paddle boarding, surfing, volunteering

Wave rider

Peter Linn expresses himself on the waves — ocean and radio.

Though he is officially retired from the Department of Education, Linn continues to work as a contract teacher, while also finding time for water sports and his radio show.

He teaches health, which encompasses a wide variety of topics, including suicide prevention, substance abuse to prevention, nutrition to the body systems and first aid and safety.

Linn previously taught at John F. Kennedy High School and now teaches at George Washington High School.

“I like what I do. Every day is different and every semester is different,” Linn says.

Keeping his students happy and healthy is his ultimate goal.

“I try to encourage the [students] that are doing the right things. And for the ones who admit that they are not, I try to get them to see the side that will keep them alive and as healthy as they can be,” he says.

Linn’s interest in teaching was launched when his swim coach hired him to give swimming lessons and it’s no surprise he keeps up his love for the water as a coach of youth water polo, volunteer judge of Guahan Napu – a surfing competition, member of the Guam Water Polo Club and commodore of the Marianas Yacht Club. But he has another love: music.

Linn hosts “The Gig,” which airs every Wednesday from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., and is one of the rotating show hosts of Route 66 on Saturday evenings on KPRG. “My love is music. It gives me a chance to show what I have, what’s new and what I like,” he says.

On “The Gig,” he does adult album alternative, playing any rock, soul or reggae and staying away from the Top 40. In a show, he’ll play a few songs from artists ranging from Bob Dylan to Sia to Bob Marley and Smokey Robinson.

“It’s kept me on my toes to keep current,” he says.

Route 66 features rock, soul and blues, also staying away from mainstream music, “because we already have enough shows doing that,” he says.

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Cover Feature///Teachers

Teaching the teachers

Charleen Peryon left a career in biology because she thought it was lonely. Spending all day looking into a microscope simply was not fulfilling.

“I love working with students, seeing them learn and seeing them do things they didn’t know before,” she says.

She and her husband, Robert, came to Guam in 1968. After arriving in Guam, she taught biology and physical science at George Washington High School, then taught at the College of Education at the University of Guam for almost 30 years, training the next generation of teachers. Many of her students earned their master’s or doctorates in education.

Peryon also ran the reading clinic, serving about 100 to 200 students a year. Graduate students in her program served as teachers in the clinic.

“I tried to tell them how important their role was. Next to working in a religious field, I think teaching is a noble profession. And [teaching is] totally human. A teacher has such an important job to help their students become the very best human person they can be,” she says.

Her most memorable moments were the years that she operated the reading clinic, the last six years that she was on Guam.

“I remember the students’ enthusiasm and their sheer dedication to working with children with problems,” Peryon says.

During her time on Guam, she started the Future Teachers Association at George Washington High School, the Guam International Reader Association and she was inducted into the Chai Omicrom Gamma, a UOG honor society.

“I can’t begin to tell you. Those were the happiest years of my life,” she says. Peryon retired from teaching in 2008.

I think teaching is a noble profession.

And [teaching is] totally human. A teacher has such an important job to help their students become the very best human person they can be.

- Charleen Peryon

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Section///Spotlight Restaurants & Food///Coffee Shops

NOT YOUR AVERAGE

Cup of Joe

Take your coffee addiction to the next level with these signature coffee and non-coffee finds at Guam cafés

STORY BY LARA OZAKI

Guam cafés offer a variety of coffees, specialty coffee drinks and non-coffee alternatives like juices, frappes, smoothies and more, but some are bumping their brews up a notch. If you’re bored with your basic cup of coffee in the morning or blended drink in the afternoons, reinvigorate your routine with something more creative.

Would you like a four-layered calamansi cooler? A steaming cup of mocha latte with fluffy foam on top? A decadent Ferrero chocolate frappe or a creamy orange frappe? Find your new favorite at a café near you.

Honolulu Coffee Co. Location: The Plaza Shopping Center; Tumon Sands Plaza Hours: 9:30 a.m.–11 p.m. daily The Plaza; 9:30 a.m.–10 p.m. daily Tumon Sands Plaza Contact: 646-0099 Website: www.honolulucoffee.com honolulucoffeeco.guam @honolulucoffeeguam

The Nutty Hawaiian is gourmet coconut and macadamia nut flavored coffee that can be enjoyed iced, hot or in a frappe. For those who prefer caffeinefree drinks, the pretty Guam Sunset and the Orange Vanilla Frappe are popular.

Blended Café

Pâtisserie PariSco

Location: 511 Macheche Rd., Dededo Chii Building, across from Las Palmas Hours: 6:30 a.m.–7:30 p.m. Monday–Friday; 7 a.m.–7 p.m. Saturday; 7 a.m.–3p.m. Sunday Contact: 632-2233 (CAFÉ) @blendedcafeguam

Location: 285 Farenholt Ave., Tamuning Hours: 7 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday–Saturday Contact: 646-0099 Website: www.patisserieparisco.com patisseriepariscoguam @pariscoguam

The Almond Roca Frappe was one of Blended’s first creations when it opened, mixed with Almond Roca chocolate and a delicious caramel swirl. The most popular drink, especially served as a frappe, is the White Chocolate Caramel Crunch, also known as the “W. Triple C.”

Patisserie PariSco offers a number of unique non-coffee frappes including the beautiful berries and cream-based Unicorn Frappe, the hazelnut Ferrero Frappe and the Paris-Tokyo Frappe with matcha and caramel. Coffee-lovers can enjoy espresso-based frappes too, like the Campfire Frappe with marshmallows and chocolate just like S’mores.

Restaurants & Food//Coffee Shops Section///Spotlight

Java Junction Location: J&G Commercial Plaza, Suite 107, behind Big Hook Hours: 6:30 a.m.–6 p.m. Monday–Friday; 7 a.m.– 12 p.m. Saturday Contact: 472-8880 @JavaJunctionGuam The Calamansi Crush is a refreshing, colorful blended drink with layers of popular flavors in one cup: Mango Calamansi Crush, Kiwi Calamansi Crush and Strawberry Calamansi Crush.

Port of Mocha Location: Micronesia Mall Food Court; Downtown Hagåtña; Martyr Street, Hagåtña; Agana Shopping Center, Marine Corps.

Drive; and ITC intersection, Tamuning.

For hours of operation, please visit the Port of Mocha Facebook page. @portofmocha

Port of Mocha specializes in signature mochas using a fine espresso blend from Indonesia specifically blended for Port of Mocha. Combined with gourmet chocolate sauces and syrups, the Mocha has a distinctively strong taste.

Feeling generous? Make someone’s day by buying them a coffee at Hafa Coffee or Brewed Awakenings. Check out the Pay-it-Forward coffee boards to add your own or claim one that someone else has pre-purchased with well wishes.

Feeling adventurous? Try the Crème Brulatte, a crème brulee-inspired latte at Hafa Coffee, or inhale cold vapor with the -340°F Dragon’s Breath with ice cream and corn puffs!

Hafa Coffee

Brewed Awakenings

Location: 518 Pale San Vitores Rd. St. 104, Tumon Hours: 7 a.m.–4 p.m. daily Contact: 648-2326 @hafacoffee

Location: Guam Business Center, Route 16, Harmon Hours: 6:30 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday–Saturday; 6:30 a.m.–2 p.m. Sunday Contact: 989-2793 (BRWD) @brewedawakenings_gu

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OUT&ABOUT

OUT & ABOUT

Photos by Joy White

Guam Black Network held its first Juneteenth event on June 17 at Gov. Joseph Flores Memorial Park.

Photo by Joy White

Photo by Lara Ozaki

Members of the Swingin’ Blue Stars met with the media on June 28, prior to their headlining of “A Sentimental Journey 2: Hats Off Guam World War II Survivors,” a musical tribute, at the Sheraton Laguna Guam Resort.

Guam hosted the International Basketball Association (FIBA) U17 Oceania Championships from July 10 to 15. Team Guam snagged Championship 2017 Bronze Medal. Other mens and womens teams that competed include New Zealand, Australia, Tahiti, the Marshall Islands, Australia, New Caledonia, Samoa and Palau.

SEND US YOUR PHOTOS! TO SUBMIT YOUR PHOTOS FOR OUT & ABOUT, EMAIL HIGH-RESOLUTION PHOTOS TO: RRPACIFICGUAM@GMAIL.COM

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PLEASE INCLUDE: - CAPTIONS (NAMES, DATE, EVENT NAME AND LOCATION) - YOUR NAME AND VILLAGE

OUT&ABOUT

Photos by Julian L. North

Residents had a blast at the Guam Live International Music Festival held on June 3 at the Gov. Joseph Flores Memorial Park.

Photos by Joy White

Guam Marianas Training Center held its allied health graduation ceremony on June 24 at the Fiesta Resort Guam.

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OUT&ABOUT

Photos by Julian L. North

Guam Visitors Bureau on June 1 unveiled the Fort Soledad Heart, a tribute to the late “Big John” Tedtaotao of Umatac, who was known for offering free rides on his carabao to visitors. The tribute features artwork by Joshua Agerstand on one side and signed messages from Tedtaotao’s friends and family on the other side.

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Photos by Kambes Kesolei

KONQER was held in Palau for the first time on June 10 and 11. The event received a positive response from participants, spectators and sponsors, according to Kaz Endo, chief experience officer of KONQER Sports.

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